For many women breast tenderness is a regular part of their life, staring in the week or so before their menstrual period and then, once their period begins, the pain starts to subside. This type of pain is common and usually nothing to worry about.

For other women, breast pain or tenderness can be much more of a problem. You might notice pain in both breasts, one whole breast, or just one spot on a breast. It can be a sharp or burning pain. If you are experiencing this type of breast pain, especially if you feel a lump or mass in the breast, you should contact your healthcare provider for an appointment.

If your healthcare provider finds no clear reason for concern, there are a few steps you can take at home to help reduce the discomfort.

• Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra. This is especially important during exercise or other physical activity. Some women will even wear a comfortable bra when sleeping.
• Get enough exercise. Even a simple walk for 30 minutes each day can be enough to help reduce breast pain. Physical activity is crucial to your body's ability to maintain a good hormone balance.
• Chill out. It's a good idea to practice stress relief since stress has been shown to make breast pain worse. Also, try an ice pack or cold compresses when breast pain is at its worst.
• Modify your diet and start a multi-vitamin. Studies have shown that removing or reducing certain foods from your diet can significantly impact breast pain.
• Cut the fat. A low-fat diet has been shown to reduce excess estrogen.
• Eat your Wheaties. Fiber can also decrease excess estrogen in your body. Consider starting each day with a bowl of high-fiber cereal.
• Just say no to caffeine. This is a tough step for many women, but beverages such as coffee, tea, and soda have a big impact on breast pain. Chocolate can also be a culprit. Try substituting caffeine-free tea if you need something hot to drink and choose water or juice instead of soda.
• Slash the salt. We all know that salt can cause fluid retention, but did you know it can also boost pain? Try not to add salt when cooking and stay away from packages or processed foods.
• Take your vitamins. If you're not taking a multi-vitamin, you should consider starting one. Make sure it contains vitamin A, the B-complex vitamin, vitamin E, Iodine, and Selenium. Magnesium supplements have also been shown to help reduce breast pain.

If your breast pain continues or seems to get worse, its important that you notify your healthcare provider. You may need further testing.